OIPA board of directors member Dewey Bartlett was called "head-and-shoulders the best choice" in Tulsa's Republican mayoral primary.

The endorsement came from the Tulsa World, which also pointed out there will be no runoff in the 11-person contest, even if there is no majority. Bartlett's main opposition is likely to come from former city councilors Chris Medlock and Anna Falling.

Bartlett, a Tulsa native and son and namesake of one of Oklahoma's most beloved Republican leaders, has carved out his own successful career. He began in the oil business as a landman and now is president of an independent energy producing company. Recognized industry-wide for his leadership, Bartlett currently is chairman of the National Stripper Well Association, representing more than 4,000 small-business owners in Oklahoma, and also is chairman of the Oklahoma Energy Resources Board.

Bartlett's record of public service includes two successful terms on the Tulsa City Council, turns on the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority, Tulsa Community College Foundation board and Academy for State Goals board, and spare-time work as a Red Cross volunteer.

He is a Republican Party stalwart, and as such has been endorsed by conservative Republican leaders in the area.

Bartlett is a family man. He is personable and would be a unifying force at City Hall. That is of crucial importance, given the often fractious to downright dysfunctional carrying-ons in city government.